PHOENIX AZ (April 10, 2012) – A three member disciplinary panel has ordered attorneys Andrew Thomas and Lisa Aubuchon be disbarred for violating the Rules of Professional Conduct. A third attorney, Rachel Alexander, will be suspended for six months and one day. The panel found that Thomas and Aubuchon used their positions as Maricopa County attorney and deputy county attorney to target political enemies.

A 247 page order details how the three lawyers ignored conflicts of interest and used their positions to burden and embarrass targeted individuals. The order also states the three attorneys violated the Rules of Professional Conduct relating to perjury and violating court rules. Alexander, who also worked as a deputy county attorney, was found to have filed a lawsuit without completing a proper factual investigation.

The nine week case was tried before a hearing panel comprised of the Presiding Disciplinary Judge and two volunteer panel members (one attorney and a member of the public). Forty eight witnesses testified and nearly 6,200 pages of exhibits were admitted.

In its ruling, the panel stated, “This case is replete with intentionally orchestrated malignant actions.” The ruling went on to state there was an “absence of ethical behavior.” The sanctions are scheduled to take effect May 10, 2012.

Thomas, Aubuchon and Alexander have ten days to decide whether they will appeal the rulings to the Arizona Supreme Court. If they choose to do so, they can also request the discipline be stayed until the appeal is heard. To read the complete ruling, follow this SedonaEye.com provided link http://www.azcourts.gov/Portals/9/Press%20Releases/2012/041012ThomasAubuchonAlexander_opinion.pdf.

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